AMSTERDAM EVENTS CALENDAR

Amsterdam’s bustling events calendar promises a year filled with cultural, artistic, and entertaining happenings. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, music lover, or simply looking for a good time, Amsterdam offers something for everyone, month by month. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of at least three events for each month, along with their respective websites for additional information.

January:

  • Amsterdam Light Festival (December – January): As the city transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland with illuminated art installations, take a canal cruise to enjoy these breathtaking displays. Website
  • National Tulip Day (January): Kick off the year surrounded by a sea of vibrant tulips at Dam Square. Visitors can pick their own tulips for free. Website
  • Kopstootbar Pop-up (January): Delve into Dutch culture with this unique pop-up bar, where you can savor the traditional combination of genever and beer. Website

February:

  • Chinese New Year (February): Amsterdam’s Chinatown comes alive with vibrant celebrations, including parades, traditional performances, and cultural events. Website
  • Classical Music Performances (February): The city’s renowned venues, such as the Concertgebouw, offer a rich program of classical concerts to enchant music enthusiasts. Website
  • Amsterdam Coffee Festival (February): Dive into the world of coffee at this annual event featuring artisanal roasters, baristas, and coffee-related experiences. Website

March:

  • Keukenhof Gardens (March – May): Welcoming spring, the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens burst into a riot of color with millions of blooming flowers, including tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. A floral wonderland not to be missed. Website
  • The Netherlands’ National Opera & Ballet (Year-Round): Experience world-class opera and ballet performances at this renowned cultural institution, offering an array of productions throughout the year. Website
  • Amsterdam Art Weekend (March): Immerse yourself in the contemporary art scene during Amsterdam Art Weekend, featuring gallery exhibitions, artist talks, and special events. Website

April:

  • King’s Day (Koningsdag) (April 27): Join the whole country in celebrating the Dutch King’s birthday with a riot of orange-clad revelers, street markets, live music, and a joyous atmosphere. Website
  • Tulp Festival (April): Amsterdam blooms with stunning tulip displays in public spaces, parks, and gardens, creating a floral tapestry across the city. Website
  • Amsterdam Tulip Festival (April): Explore tulip-themed art exhibitions and enchanting garden displays, celebrating the iconic Dutch flower. Website

May:

  • Amsterdam Open Air (May): Dance to the beats of renowned DJs and live acts in a sprawling electronic music festival that draws music enthusiasts from across the globe. Website
  • Fringe Festival (May): Discover the latest in boundary-pushing and experimental theater, dance, and multidisciplinary performances during the Amsterdam Fringe Festival. Website
  • Hortus Festival (May – August): Enjoy classical music performances held in enchanting locations, such as Amsterdam’s botanical gardens, creating a harmonious fusion of music and nature. Website

June:

  • Holland Festival (June): Immerse yourself in a world of performing arts with international theater, dance, and music performances. The Holland Festival showcases groundbreaking works and innovative productions. Website
  • Vondelpark Openluchttheater (June – September): Enjoy free open-air performances, including music, dance, and theater, in the picturesque setting of Vondelpark. A perfect way to embrace the summer vibes in Amsterdam. Website
  • SAIL Amsterdam (June – August): Experience one of the world’s largest nautical events with a fleet of impressive tall ships, maritime heritage, and exciting activities along the IJ River. Website

July:

  • Pride Amsterdam (July – August): Celebrate diversity and inclusion at one of the most famous LGBT+ events globally, featuring vibrant canal parades, parties, exhibitions, and cultural events. Website
  • Amsterdam Roots Festival (July): Explore the diverse cultures of the world through music, dance, and arts at this multicultural festival. Website
  • Amsterdam International Art Fair (July): Admire and purchase contemporary art from a global selection of artists at this prestigious art fair. Website

August:

  • Grachtenfestival (August): Enjoy classical music performances in unique settings, from boats on Amsterdam’s canals to historical buildings, making it a feast for classical music lovers. Website
  • Uitmarkt (August): Kick off the cultural season with a three-day festival featuring performances, concerts, and exhibitions, offering a sneak peek into the upcoming arts and entertainment in Amsterdam. Website
  • World Cinema Amsterdam (August): Discover world cinema with a focus on films from Latin America, Asia, and Africa. The festival offers screenings, Q&A sessions, and cultural events. Website

September:

  • Amsterdam Fringe Festival (September): A platform for innovative and experimental theater, dance, and multidisciplinary performances that challenge artistic boundaries. Website
  • Netherlands Film Festival (September): Explore the best of Dutch cinema with film screenings, premieres, and industry events, celebrating the country’s filmmaking talent. Website
  • Dam tot Damloop (September): Join one of the largest running events in the Netherlands, with a route stretching from Amsterdam to Zaandam, offering various race distances. Website

October:

  • Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) (October): The global epicenter of electronic music, ADE brings together DJs, producers, and music professionals for conferences, performances, and parties. Website
  • Amsterdam Marathon (October): Lace up your running shoes and participate in the TCS Amsterdam Marathon, with various race categories for runners of all levels. Website
  • Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) (October): The global epicenter of electronic music, ADE brings together DJs, producers, and music professionals for conferences, performances, and parties. Website

November:

  • Museumnacht (Museum Night) (November): Explore Amsterdam’s museums and cultural institutions during a night of special exhibitions, performances, and parties. Website
  • International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) (November): Discover the best in documentary cinema from around the world, attend screenings, and engage in discussions with filmmakers. Website
  • PAN Amsterdam (November): Delight in an extensive art fair with a broad array of art, antiques, and design, where you can view and purchase unique pieces. Website

December:

  • Amsterdam Light Festival (December – January): Revisit the city’s annual light festival with new installations and dazzling displays, casting a magical glow on the Amsterdam canals. Website
  • Kerstmarkt (Christmas Market) (December): Experience the enchantment of Amsterdam’s Christmas markets, such as the one at Rembrandtplein, offering festive goods, food, and entertainment. Website
  • Winterparade (December): Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland filled with culinary delights, performances, and festive activities at this seasonal event. Website